A building that housed the multiple functions such as Congress had
assigned to the Smithsonian Institution did not exist in the United
States in 1846. The Smithsonian Building Committee worked closely
with noted architect James Renwick, Jr., to create a Smithsonian
building that included an art gallery, a library, a chemical
laboratory, lecture halls, and museum galleries.

Renwick designed the Smithsonian Building (now known as the Castle)
in a medieval revival style intended to evoke the cloistered, scholarly
atmosphere associated with venerable English colleges.

"Nor do I believe that any one . . . in looking upon that
building, would mistake its character, or connect it . . . with
other than a scientific or collegiate foundation."

—Robert Dale Owen, Chairman of the
Smithsonian Building Committee, 1849

The building's picturesque quality was heightened by the impression
of asymmetry created by nine architecturally distinct towers and the
stylistic contrast of the two wings: one a rectangular block with
battlements and chimneys, the other chapel-like.

Completed in 1855, the building was at once impressive and controversial.

"The majority of Strangers who visit the city consider it a very
beautiful edifice."